SDS Section 9: Physical and Chemical Properties

Section 9 may appear to be a simple data table, but it is essential. The values in Section 9 determine classifications throughout the SDS. For example, flash point establishes the flammable liquid category, viscosity can indicate an aspiration hazard, and these values inform transport classification in Section 14.

If Section 9 contains errors, other sections are likely to be incorrect as well.

Contents of Section 9

Under the GHS format used by OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard (as updated in 2024), WHMIS and EU CLP/REACH, Section 9 typically includes:

• Physical state, color and odor
• Melting point / freezing point
• Boiling point or initial boiling point and boiling range
• Flammability
• Lower and upper explosion or flammability limits
• Flash point
• Auto-ignition temperature
• Decomposition temperature
• pH
• Kinematic viscosity
• Solubility
• Partition coefficient (n-octanol/water, log value)
• Vapor pressure
• Density and/or relative density
• Relative vapor density
• Particle characteristics (for solids)

The specific list of properties may vary by jurisdiction and GHS revision. Confirm which version your regulation requires. If a property does not apply or data is unavailable, state this and provide a reason where possible.

Why Section 9 matters for classification

Several GHS hazard classes are decided directly from Section 9 values:

For this reason, complete Section 9 before performing classification.

Common Section 9 mistakes

• Copying values from a raw material to a mixture. The flash point of a solvent is not the same as that of the blend. Mixtures typically require their own test data or a justified estimate.
• Listing “No data available” for all properties. Regulators and customers may interpret incomplete Section 9s as a lack of due diligence. Provide actual data where it affects classification.
• Omitting units and test conditions. For example, a flash point without specifying the test method or a viscosity without the temperature is not usable.
• Inconsistent values between sections. For instance, if Section 9 lists a flash point of 45 °C but Section 2 does not classify the product as a flammable liquid, this discrepancy will be noted by auditors.
• Using outdated property lists. Recent GHS revisions have updated the required properties. Older templates may include obsolete fields and omit new requirements.
• Failing to update Section 9. Reformulations can alter physical properties, so Section 9 should be reviewed whenever the formula changes.

How to get Section 9 right

1. First, collect test data for properties that determine classification, such as flash point, boiling point, viscosity, and pH.
2. Record the test method, temperature, and units for each value.
3. Use calculated or estimated values only if permitted by your regulation, and clearly indicate when values are estimates.
4. Base your classification on these values, then verify consistency with Sections 2, 11, and 14.
5. Review Section 9 whenever the formula, supplier, or test data changes.

How Valenc handles it

Valenc links Section 9 data directly to the product record and integrates it into the rules engine. When a flash point or viscosity changes, the related classifications in Sections 2 and 14 are updated accordingly, with each change traceable to the specific rule applied. All updates require human approval before publication.

To assess your current SDS authoring costs, use the SDS cost calculator or schedule a demonstration.